(WNY News Now) – Mayville, NY – The Chautauqua County Health Department, in collaboration with the Town of Poland and Town of Portland, announces two upcoming free rabies vaccination clinics for dogs, cats, and domesticated ferrets.

The Chautauqua County Health Department (CCHD) is partnering with the Town of Poland and Town of Portland to host free rabies vaccination clinics for pets. The clinics will take place on Saturday, April 27th, from 1:00pm to 3:00pm at the Town of Poland Highway Department, and on Saturday, May 4th, from 9:00am to 12:00pm at the Town of Portland Fire Department.

Pet owners are required to pre-register online at https://chqgov.com/environmental-health/rabies to secure a spot. Walk-ins may be accepted at the end of the clinic, subject to availability. Vehicles will follow designated traffic patterns on-site, and pet owners will remain in their vehicles with their pets unless otherwise instructed.

It’s mandatory for all dogs, cats, and domesticated ferrets over three months old to be vaccinated against rabies, as per New York State Public Health Law. Pet owners must bring previous vaccination records for each animal to ensure proper vaccination. Dogs must be on leashes, and cats must be in individual carriers.

Rabies is a severe viral disease transmitted through saliva, commonly carried by raccoons, bats, skunks, and foxes. Symptoms can be fatal if left untreated.

For more information about the clinic, contact the Chautauqua County Humane Society at 716-665-2209 or visit chqgov.com/environmental-health/rabies-prevention.